026: Journey to Authenticity & Lifelong Learning with Fran Murray

In this episode, you will gain the dose of inspiration and motivation that you’re needing today. I have had a number of opportunities to hear my guest Fran Murray speak and I leave each one feeling like I have learned something new. We discuss finding our authenticity, taking a relational vs. transactional approach when it comes to business as well as teaching and learning, the importance of being a lifelong learner, and so much more!  Fran Murray, the bougie baker, food network competitor, and author, is the visionary behind Fran Murray Co. This boutique gifting agency excels at meticulously curating unforgettable experiences by fusing Fran's handcrafted gourmet confections with carefully selected products from local women and visible minority-owned businesses. With Fran's expertise, high-ticket service-based businesses can nurture key relationships, optimize their profits and reclaim their time through automated relationship-based gifting strategies.   Listen in as we talk about: [3:05] How Fran started baking [5:40] Feeling lost after her first child [6:30] Rediscovering who she was [9:55] Starting her own baking business [11:40] Moving to Canada from Jamaica as a child [14:40] How teachers or community members could have made her transition easier when she moved [19:40] The reinvention of yourself [24:35] Finding your own authenticity  [31:20] Showing our appreciation for others [48:35] Fran answers some rapid-fire questions [53:35] Continuous learning and the gift of sharing   Connect with Fran: Website: https://www.franmurray.co LinkedIn: Frances Murray https://www.linkedin.com/in/franmurrayco/ Instagram: @franmurray.co https://www.instagram.com/franmurray.co/ Facebook: @franmurray.co https://www.facebook.com/franmurray.co TikTok: @franmurray.co https://www.tiktok.com/@franmurray.co   Connect with Tiana: Website: https://tianafech.com LinkedIn: Tiana Fech Instagram: @tianafech  Facebook: @tianafech  Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course    REDISCOVERING WHO YOU ARE AS A MOM OR PARENT At 30, Fran embarked on a self-reflective journey, challenging the idea that motherhood marked the end of her personal growth. She delved into vision board exercises, attended conferences, and actively sought out a vibrant community that resonated with her desire for continuous creativity and motion. Reflecting on her identity beyond familial roles and social expectations, she rekindled her passion for baking, which provided her with a profound sense of solace and purpose. This transformative experience resonates with many moms who undergo a similar self-discovery process, often feeling alone and struggling to articulate their emotions.  Fran's story underscores the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals pursuing diverse paths, ultimately sparking personal growth and rekindling one's inner spark.   FINDING YOUR OWN AUTHENTICITY Wearing an identity imposed by societal expectations can lead to burnout and exhaustion.  Fran’s key advice is to delve deep into your core self and discover what truly ignites your passion and purpose, irrespective of external pressures or labels. This journey of self-discovery may be challenging, often involving uncomfortable self-reflection and shedding behaviors that don't align with your authentic self.  Fran's realization of her inauthentic corporate persona highlighted the need for this transformation. Embracing authenticity brings freedom and confidence, allowing you to fearlessly pursue your path without being swayed by others' opinions. Although imposter syndrome is a universal challenge, you can overcome it by focusing on your past achievements and the belief that change leads to growth. The ongoing journey of authenticity is both daunting and beautiful, ultimately fostering a sense of fulfillment.   SHOWING OUR APPRECIATION FOR OTHERS Relationships are at the core of everything Fran does.